Ceilidh in Lockton Saturday 4th October

The Well Dressed Band is making a much-anticipated return to the Lockton Village Hall for a proper traditional ceilidh. This isn't just any old get-together; it's a chance to have a laugh, learn a new dance, and support a brilliant local cause. It’s happening on Saturday 4th October, and it promises to be a really memorable evening.

So, what on earth is a ceilidh?

That's a fair question. You might have heard the word ‘ceilidh’ (pronounced 'kay-lee') thrown around, or maybe ‘barn dance’. Basically, they’re the same thing. A ceilidh is a traditional social gathering with folk music and dancing. But don't let the word 'traditional' put you off. This isn’t about being a professional dancer with perfect moves. A ceilidh is all about having fun and giving it a go.

No experience? no problem!

At every ceilidh, there’s a very important person called a ‘caller’. The caller is like a friendly instructor who stands on stage with the band. Before each dance starts, the caller will walk everyone through the steps. They'll explain everything simply, like "take four steps forward, four steps back, grab your partner and spin!"

They guide everyone through the whole dance, shouting out instructions over the music so nobody gets lost. The instructions from the caller make the whole thing really easy to follow. It’s not about getting it perfect; it’s about the laughter that happens when it all goes a bit wrong. That’s what makes a ceilidh such a fun night.

A band with a twenty-year history

The music for the evening comes from the Well Dressed Band. These folks are practically part of the Lockton furniture. They're based in Derbyshire but have been travelling to play for the ceilidh in Lockton for 20 years.Their long-standing connection to the Lockton village community means they know exactly how to get everyone up and dancing.

Having a live band completely transforms the experience. The Well Dressed Band are masters of their craft, playing all the classic tunes for the reels that make a ceilidh what it is.

More than just a dance

This event is about more than just the music and the dance; it’s a proper community evening. Alongside the dancing, there will also be a raffle. And what about food? The event includes a faith supper. This is a lovely old tradition that's basically a potluck dinner. Everyone who comes is encouraged to bring a little something to share, whether it’s a plate of sandwiches, a cake, or a bowl of sausage rolls. A faith supper is a wonderful way to bring people together, sharing food and conversation. It turns the event from just a dance into a real social occasion, where neighbours can catch up and enjoy a meal together in the Lockton Village Hall.

Dancing for a fantastic cause

Perhaps the best part of this whole fun night is that all the money raised goes towards a brilliant local project: the Lockton Community Orchard. A community orchard is a space planted with fruit trees that is shared by everyone in the local area. It’s a place where people can come together to care for the trees and eventually share the harvest.

Supporting the Community Orchard means helping to create a beautiful green space for the whole Lockton community to enjoy for years to come. It’s about nature, sustainability, and creating something positive for future generations. So, every spin during the polka and every step during the reel is helping to plant apple trees. It’s a wonderful thought – enjoying a fantastic barn dance while contributing to such a worthwhile cause.

Key details:

• What: A ceilidh (Barn Dance) with the Well Dressed Band
• Where: Lockton Village Hall
• When: Saturday 4th October, starting at 7.30pm
• Tickets: £5 for adults, £3 for children, or £10 for a family ticket
• Extras: There will be a raffle and a faith supper (food contributions are welcome!)
• Address: Lockton Village Hall, Lockton, Pickering YO18 7QB, UK